1992 BMW 540 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Because 1992 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 540 | Cabriolet |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
